Handvo is a traditional Gujarati savory cake made with lentils and rice, fermented for a light and fluffy texture. It is spiced with green chilies and tempered with mustard seeds for added flavor.
Ingredients
For the Batter:
- 1 cup rice
- 1/2 cup split Bengal gram (chana dal)
- 1/4 cup split pigeon peas (toor dal)
- 1/4 cup split green gram (moong dal)
- 1/2 cup yogurt
- 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon red chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger-green chili paste
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
- 1 cup grated bottle gourd (lauki/doodhi)
- 2 tablespoons chopped coriander leaves
For the Tempering:
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 1 teaspoon mustard seeds
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
- 1/2 teaspoon asafoetida (hing)
- 8-10 curry leaves
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
- Wash and soak rice and lentils together in water for 6-8 hours.
- Drain and grind to a slightly coarse paste using yogurt and little water.
- Transfer to a bowl, cover, and ferment overnight or for 8-10 hours.
- Once fermented, add turmeric, red chili powder, ginger-green chili paste, salt, lemon juice, and grated bottle gourd.
- Just before cooking, mix in the baking soda.
Step 2: Cook the Handvo
- Heat a non-stick pan or a heavy-bottomed vessel and add 1 tablespoon oil.
- Pour the batter into the pan and spread evenly.
- Cover and cook on low heat for 10-15 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Flip carefully and cook for another 10 minutes on low heat.
Step 3: Prepare the Tempering
- In a small pan, heat oil and add mustard seeds.
- Once they splutter, add sesame seeds, asafoetida, and curry leaves.
- Pour the tempering over the cooked handvo.
Step 4: Serve
- Cut into slices and serve warm with green chutney or yogurt.
- Enjoy your crispy and flavorful Handvo!
Tips for Perfect Handvo
- For Extra Crunch: Add some crushed peanuts or grated coconut to the batter.
- For a Healthier Option: Bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for 30-35 minutes.
- For More Flavor: Add grated carrot or zucchini along with bottle gourd.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
- Calories: 180 kcal
- Protein: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fat: 6g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 2g
Handvo is a wholesome, protein-rich dish perfect for breakfast or a light meal!